Quantcast

The DNAinfo archives brought to you by WNYC.
Read the press release here.

Street Resurfacing Projects Set for Portage Park

By Heather Cherone | October 24, 2014 5:47am
 Irving Park Road between Neenah and Austin avenues is set to be resurfaced.
Irving Park Road between Neenah and Austin avenues is set to be resurfaced.
View Full Caption
DNAInfo/Heather Cherone

PORTAGE PARK — The first phase of a face-lift that city officials hope will boost the Irving Austin Business District is set to begin with the resurfacing of Irving Park Road between Neenah and Austin avenues, Ald. Tim Cullerton (38th) said Thursday.

The work is "much needed," Cullerton said, adding that he hopes the $600,000 beautification project can begin before the weather turns cold once the resurfacing is complete.

City crews will also resurface Central Avenue between Diversey and Berteau avenues and between Montrose and Higgins avenues in Portage Park, Cullerton said.

The Irving Park Road streetscape project will install pedestrian-friendly crosswalks, bigger sidewalks and new metal light pole banners featuring the logo of the Irving Austin Business District from Austin to Meade avenues.

Three intersections will be "stamped" with a decorative circular design on the pavement in an effort to encourage drivers to slow down — and give the business district a distinctive identity, Cullerton said.

Plans for a People Spot, which would have allowed folks to gather in a playful place once ruled by cars, were dropped because of concerns that it would have taken up too many parking spots in the business district, Cullerton said.

For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here: